Sweater Vests to Knit

The 2-skein concept is probably more popular today than in 1980. Knitting and crochet books circulate very well, and my patrons are constantly making suggestions for new materials. Quick and relatively easy projects are hot items, and this type of pattern would circulate if it was a bit more contemporary. However, the late 1970/1980’s look screams outdated. No matter how relevant the content, if it doesn’t look good, it won’t circulate.

Whenever I make a comment like above, there will always be someone who tells me I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. (There is usually a judgmental tone with this comment as well) It’s as if I spit on Ranganathan himself. Maybe I will keep this around for those librarians who don’t judge books by the cover and need to expand that 80s look in their wardrobe. (Don’t forget, every book has its reader….)

To anyone who wants to comment about judging a book by it’s cover – Last week I read a knitting blog post about the benefits of using black and white photos in a magazine or book, because many knitters, apparently, have a hard time getting past colors they don’t like in the sample photos. (This is similar to why realtors often suggest you paint your rooms neutrals, because, for example, if a buyer doesn’t like the red walls in your kitchen they won’t like the kitchen, period.) I know it seems strange, but a lot of knitters and crocheters won’t be able to get past the dated look in the photos to really look at the garments/patterns to decide if they like it.

Interesting how most of the knitting/crochet/macrame books show only clothes you put on top of an already-complete outfit. One imagines the models just ditching the vests/overshirts/sashes as soon as the photo shoot is over- or as soon as the well-meaning gift-giver went home.